More rain headed for Mendocino County

Rain is expected through Christmas and beyond, with a break on Christmas Eve, for Ukiah and Inland Mendocino County, according to the National Weather Service.

There is a 100-percent chance of rain today, and the NWS warns that it could become heavy at times, with as much as a quarter to a half-inch of rain predicted to fall in Ukiah. Lows tonight will be between 26 and 36.

After a mostly sunny day in Ukiah on Monday with highs between 40 and 50 degrees, Christmas Day will see rain, highs between 38 and 48 and lows between 30 and 40 degrees.

Wednesday through Saturday predictions include clouds and chances of showers, with lows ranging between 25 and 34, according to the NWS.

All of Inland Mendocino County was under a flood watch Saturday night through today as a Pacific storm was expected to bring moderate to heavy rain and between one and three inches of rain to the region, according to the NWS.

The flood warning, particularly for the Navarro River at Navarro, warned that the heavy rainfall could mean quickly rising river levels with possible flooding.

The NWS "hazardous weather outlook" for the inland areas also predicts that another storm system will bring more rain and high-elevation snow early today, with snow levels initially around 3,000 feet and rising to 5,000 feet. Between three and eight inches of snow were expected to accumulate.

Holiday travel tips from the California Highway Patrol

Before heading for or through snowy, mountain roads:

? Make sure brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.

? Check antifreeze level and be ready for cold temperatures. Solvent may be added to windshield washer reservoir to prevent icing.

? Check tires for proper inflation and good tread.

? Carry chains that are the right size for the vehicle's tires, a flashlight and chain repair links. Chains should be installed on the drive wheels, so ensure you know whether your vehicle is front- or rear-wheel drive.

? Keep in your vehicle an ice scraper or deicer, a broom for brushing snow off of your vehicle, a shovel to free your car in case it becomes "snowed in," sand or burlap for traction if your wheels become mired in snow and an old towel to clean your hands.

? It's also a good idea to have in your car food, warm blankets, hats, gloves and extra clothing in case of a lengthy delay.

? Carry an extra car key in your pocket. According to the CHP, "A number of motorists have locked themselves out of their cars when putting on chains and at ski areas."

? Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter than at other times of the year, especially if you encounter storms or icy roads, so get an early start and allow enough time for the trip.

? Keep your gas tank full in case you have to change routes, turn back during a bad storm or are caught in a traffic jam.

? Keep windshield and windows clear. Stop at a safe turnout when necessary to use a snow or ice scraper, and use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep windows free of fog.

? Slow down. Driving 55 miles per hour on the highway may be safe in dry weather, but not during snowy and icy conditions, which make stopping distances much longer. Keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas aren't. Avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.

? Be observant. Visibility is often limited in winter, so slow down and watch for other vehicles and for snow equipment.

? When stalled, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be alert to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems.

The CHP also urges motorists to check road conditions often by calling the Caltrans Road Conditions Hotline at 1-800-472-7623 (1-800-GAS-ROAD).